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A Conceptual Model of Engagement Profiles Throughout the Decades of Older Adulthood.

Authors :
Carr, Kelly
Weir, Patti
Source :
Frontiers in Psychology; 11/14/2019, Vol. 10, p1-16, 16p
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

Engagement with life is essential to successful aging. This study explored 'how' and 'why' engagement profiles change throughout older adulthood using a mixed methods design. Fifty-four participants (mean age = 79.17 years, age range = 65–97 years; 21 males, 33 females) completed questionnaires to quantify 'past' and 'present' engagement. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were completed with a subsample of participants (n = 42). Results highlight participation in a variety of activities across the decades of older adulthood, and identify that engagement in productive and active leisure pursuits decreased in frequency with increasing age, while the frequency of social and passive leisure activities remained stable. Changes in engagement were a function of five themes derived from the fundamental qualitative description: (a) health and physical limitations, (b) death, (c) freedom, (d) desire, and (e) external influential factors. Patterns of engagement frequency are interpreted in consideration of qualitative findings, creating an integrated discussion of 'how' and 'why' activity profiles emerge during older adulthood. This study highlights the value of a mixed methods approach when examining engagement in older adulthood, and provides practical implications for practitioners who seek to support a successful aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
16641078
Volume :
10
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Frontiers in Psychology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
139868765
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02535